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The energy range of the beta-particle-emitting isotopes covered by these reference radiations is 0,066 to 3,54 MeV (maximum energy).
#Beta particles iso#
This advice is based on the well-established theory that radiative losses (bremsstrahlung production) are more prevalent in higher atomic number (Z) materials than low Z materials.ISO 6980-2:2004 specifies methods for the measurement of the directional absorbed-dose rate in a tissue-equivalent slab phantom in the ISO 6980 reference beta-particle radiation fields. Radiation protection literature is ubiquitous in advising plastic placement first to absorb all the beta particles before any lead shielding is used. Lead and plastic are commonly used to shield beta radiation. Heavy clothing, thick cardboard, or a thin aluminium plate will protect from beta radiation and prevent bremsstrahlung production. This radiation is created during the slowing down of beta particles while they travel in a very dense medium. With high Z materials, the bremsstrahlung (secondary radiation – X-rays) is associated. Materials with low atomic number Z are appropriate as beta particle shields. Therefore greater shielding than in the case of alpha radiation is required. Such beta particles can penetrate the body and deposit dose to internal structures near the surface. A 1 MeV beta particle can travel approximately 3.5 meters in the air. Some have enough energy to be of concern regarding external exposure. On the other hand, the ranges of beta particles are longer and depend strongly on the initial kinetic energy of the particle.
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A much larger fraction of its kinetic energy can be lost in a single interaction than the alpha particle. Their mass is equal to the mass of the orbital electrons with which they are interacting.They are relatively light and carry a single negative charge. Beta particlesare energetic electrons.The following features of beta particles (electrons) are crucial in their shielding. Shielding of ionizing radiation simply means having some material between the source of radiation and you (or some device) that will absorb the radiation.
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